‘American Idol’ Honors Late Contestant Mandisa With Powerful Tribute Performance [Video]

Celebrating a life of praise! Late American Idol contestant Mandisa was honored during Monday night’s live show days after her tragic death. 

The gospel singer was found dead in her home earlier this month. She was 47. 

“Mandisa’s joyful spirit carried over into her GRAMMY-winning gospel music and dedication to her faith,” host Ryan Seacrest shared before introducing other Idol alums singing a tribute to Mandisa. 

Melinda Doolittle, Colton Dixon, and Danny Gokey all performed a cover of “Shackles (Praise You)” by Mary Mary — a favorite song of Mandisa’s that she previously performed on Idol. 

“Instead of going out with all sadness, there’s something we’re celebrating here — and to celebrate a life well lived,” Gokey told ET’s Denny Directo after the show. 

Mandisa’s publicist, Velvet Kelm, previously confirmed to ETthat she had died on April 18, stating, “At this time, we do not know the cause of death or any further details. We ask for …